Information Management and Technology Trainee at BAE Systems

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

8/10

Through the higher apprenticeship I move around teams completing placements within an IT function. The placements can vary from technical to business based as well as varying in length. As part of the role I am also in the process of completing a foundation degree.

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

9/10

I have learnt new skills and developed existing skills these include technical IT skills and knowledge and business based learning. This has been possible through the placements I complete as well as the higher education opportunities.

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

8/10

I enjoy the programme and the varied opportunities it provides me as well as the opportunity to further my education and use this knowledge and skills developed through my work.

4. How valued do you feel by BAE Systems?

9/10

I feel valued in my work as when I have moved around the function into new functions I am made to feel welcome in the teams and given many opportunities to develop my knowledge and skills.

5. How well organised/structured is your programme?

7/10

The programme is structured in that I complete a three year part-time foundation degree whilst completing the higher apprenticeship scheme however after my first year the scheme changed so that I now control and organise which placements I complete. This can be difficult but at the same time offers more freedom when deciding what work I would like to be involved in.

6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?

7/10

I assume that my training provider is the university I attend to study for my foundation degree. I am treated as a normal university student so a lot of information has to be found for yourself but time most of the times when I have required support this has been provided and work have also supported this.

6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?

9/10

I receive support through 12 weekly reviews and frequent team meetings with the other trainees and graduates within the function. Likewise, I know that if I need further support there are various people that I can speak to.

7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?

9/10

My salary meets my needs with the opportunities for it to increase by increments depending on my performance every 6 months. Likewise, the fact that my education is funded by a business means that this is something I don't have to worry about.

8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?

9/10

There are many opportunities outside of work for example as a group higher apprentices and graduates from the business attend various social events. Likewise, you can also be involved in stretch assignments which may involve organising events for the local community. Another example is the opportunity to complete developing opportunities such as an outward bound course in the first year of the scheme.

9a. Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend? *

Yes

9b. Why? *

I would recommend BAE Systems and the higher apprenticeship schemes in general as the opportunity to further your education whilst working for a major local employer is great. Likewise, over attending university full time the scheme means my education fees are covered and I can progress my career at the same time.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems? *

I would say that you should take your time to answer online application questions to the best of your ability, then if you get through to an assessment centre be confident and make the most of the opportunity.